How can the Zeughaus and the adjacent Alte Wache develop into an appealing cultural quarter, one that could become a new (and renewed) home for the Kölnisches Stadtmuseum? This question guided architecture students at TH Köln through their bachelor theses during the summer semester of 2025. Nine selected designs are now on view at the historic site itself—in the ground floor of the Zeughaus. The exhibited models, plans, floor plans, and sections present fresh ideas for the Zeughaus's future and open new perspectives for discussing a quarter that currently lacks adequate public space and amenities.

The students were tasked with developing concepts for how the Zeughaus and the adjacent Alte Wache could become a fitting home for the Kölnisches Stadtmuseum. Simultaneously, they were asked to examine the urban space between the Nord-Süd-Fahrt and the western end of the Römermauer, envisioning how to create a vibrant cultural district in this area. The students incorporated adjacent parking areas and surrounding streets into their considerations, working toward stronger integration of the entire Zeughaus site with the city center. The students were deliberately given substantial creative freedom: deviations from prescribed spatial and functional requirements were actively encouraged; concerns about historic preservation, structural feasibility, costs, or transportation constraints could be consciously set aside.

The designs—all original concepts developed by the bachelor students—demonstrate the diverse ways an attractive urban space around the Zeughaus could take shape. They reveal considerable potential here—not only as a museum location, but as a vibrant quarter at the heart of Cologne. The presentation of these student projects arrives at a moment when many Cologne residents are actively discussing the Zeughaus's future. The exhibition, accompanied by guided tours and public events, therefore offers an ideal opportunity to discover these ideas, compare perspectives, and collectively envision the future of this significant historic landmark.

www.koelnisches-stadtmuseum.de